Chapter 21

Joshua's expression froze; a chill ran through him. The mistress he had once boasted about with pride now felt like a bitter burden, a source of humiliation whenever Alice spoke her name. Alice hung up quickly, maintaining her composure.

“I know how hard you’ve worked to rise in the Green family,” he said quietly. “It would be a shame to ruin all that for a simple meal, wouldn't you agree?”

Joshua stood speechless, confused. What was happening to him? Alicia had always been a mere stepping stone, just like Lilliana.

Alicia turned her back. "We're divorced, Joshua. Let's stay away from each other. You can leave."

Her rejection, though expected, hit him hard. He watched her go. Suddenly, she asked, “Has Caden slept with you?”

Alicia didn't look back. "You have no right to pry into my personal life."

“Alicia, we may be divorced, but Caden is off-limits. Do you understand?” His voice was calm, but the warning was clear.

Unfazed, Alice continued toward the door. She paused, leaning against it, her body relaxed, though tension remained on her face. After a moment's hesitation, he entered, closing the door firmly.

Alicia bought things online. Meanwhile, in Caden's office, Hank reported on the day's events.

“Lilliana’s team bought all the trending hashtags; they’ve been promoting Gerry’s new film score, claiming it’s amazing.” Caden’s voice was flat. “They seem confident. Any news from Gerry?”

Hank shook his head. “Nothing yet. The Green family spared no expense; they've hired big names to support Lilliana. They’ll even appear at the premiere.”

A playful glint flashed in Caden's eyes. “He's making a fuss over an ordinary song, don't you think?”

Hank added, “I'd say Mr. Joshua Yates isn't thrilled. Lilliana works for us; her success benefits us. I bet Mr. Yates is furious his hard work is lining our pockets.”

Caden remained expressionless. At the mention of Joshua, Hank remembered something.

“Mr. Ward, a paparazzo caught Mr. Joshua Yates leaving Ms. Bennett’s house earlier.”

Caden's eyebrows rose. “Old flames rekindling?”

“Hard to say,” Hank replied cautiously. “But I doubt Miss Bennett is naive.”

Caden snorted. The naive Alice he knew wasn't made for mind games, and his body couldn't take much teasing. If Joshua had genuine intentions, Alicia would likely fall for him.

Caden's tone was indifferent. “Her body, her choice.”

Five days later, Alicia clutched her sheet music, her heart racing as she entered the recording studio. Gerry was there, lounging by the door. His charming smile spread across his face. “I thought you’d abandoned me.”

Alicia greeted him politely. “Mr. Hopkins.”

Gerry laughed. “Come on, call me Gerry.”

They were classmates. Gerry had always been Caden's best friend and had witnessed their interactions. After graduation, they’d gone their separate ways. Alicia had been the star, not only for her talent but for keeping Caden at arm's length. She was, in a way, spiritually superior to Gerry.

Gerry led her into the studio.

“Sit down,” Gerry said, pointing at the microphone. “I’ll listen from outside.”

As he left, his phone buzzed. It was Caden.

“Alicia just arrived,” Gerry informed him.

Caden’s voice was cold. "SW?" He was about to lead an international meeting, but the mention of Alicia distracted him.

Gerry clicked his tongue. “You're not coming? It's the first time your arch-enemy has recorded a song. Don’t you want a front-row seat?”

Caden sneered. “Why would I waste my time listening to a monkey squeal?” He hung up.

Hank checked the system for viruses. The latest incident seemed to have affected him.

The video call with foreign executives was quick, filled with technical jargon. Caden participated easily, asking pointed questions before ending it early.

“Mr. Ward,” Hank said, checking his watch. “Any plans for tonight?”

Caden stood, grabbing his coat.

"Let's go hear the monkey sing," he said, smiling slyly.

At the studio, Alicia had just finished her first take. Through the glass, Caden watched her. Her head was bowed, her fingers running over the sheet music. Under the warm lights, her features seemed to glow. She possessed an undeniable confidence: serious, focused, and captivating.

She may have been a hopeless romantic, but even Caden admitted her figure was beyond reproach.

His attention shifted to Gerry, eyes closed, absorbed in the music. Caden raised an eyebrow. “Hey,” he called out.

Gerry didn't react. Caden turned to Gerry's assistant.

"Is your boss tall?"